Say hello’ to new county manager

Reception to be Wednesday at county courthouse

The public will have a chance to meet La Plata County’s new county manager Wednesday at a public reception.

The meet and greet with Joe Kerby will be from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at the County Courthouse.

Kerby formerly was the Delta city manager, overseeing more than 100 employees and managing a $26 million annual budget, according to his application. La Plata County’s 2012 budget is about $64 million.

Kerby was one of four finalists the Board of County Commissioners chose after deciding a first round of candidates weren’t a good fit for the job. Kerby was formally hired in April and will start work Monday.

He will earn $145,000 annually and will be given use of the county-owned home at the La Plata County Fairgrounds for one year.

His résumé includes stints as deputy county manager in Douglas County, Montrose County manager and city manager in Iola, Kan.

Assistant County Manager Joanne Spina has served as interim manager since former county manager Shawn Nau abruptly resigned last year.